⬇️ Las Pailas Trail
⬇️ See what Awaits at Oropendola Waterfall
⬇️ Rio Negro Hot Springs and Mud Bath
Las Pailas Trail + Oropendola Waterfall + Lunch + Hot Springs
Join our most complete Rincon de la Vieja nature tour and experience some of the top highlights near Rincon de la Vieja National Park, with a Costa Rican lunch included!
First, observe fascinating volcanic activity along the Las Pailas Loop Trail, then cool off in the crystal-clear pool beneath Oropendola Waterfall. After recharging with a delicious lunch, relax in the natural thermal pools at Rio Negro Hot Springs and enjoy a rejuvenating volcanic mud bath.
See what our Rincon de la Vieja combo package is like and secure your spot today!
Why Choose this Combo Tour?
✔️ Experience Volcanic Activity
Observe steam vents and fumaroles, cool off at Oropendola Waterfall surrounded by a volcanic canyon, then enjoy natural hot springs and a volcanic mud bath.
✔️ Best Value
Save time and money by combining three popular Rincon de la Vieja activities and a Costa Rican lunch in one combo package.
✔️ Complete Nature Combo
Combine exciting hiking, volcanic landscapes, a beautiful waterfall and natural hot springs in one complete Rincon de la Vieja experience.
✔️ Day Trip from Liberia
Close to Liberia and Guanacaste Airport (LIR), this combo is an easy way to experience some of the most popular activities in Rincon de la Vieja in one day.
Las Pailas Trail + Oropendola Waterfall + Lunch + Hot Springs
Location
The tour starts at the Las Pailas Sector of Rincon de la Vieja National Park with the volcanic activity hike. Once you’ve completed the Las Pailas Loop Trail, you only have to walk about 2 minutes from the parking lot to reach the trail to Oropendola Waterfall. After visiting the waterfall, your guide will show you the way to the restaurant where you’ll have lunch.
Rio Negro Hot Springs is only about 10 minutes away. Your guide will lead you there and show you around. Afterwards, you can relax and stay as long as you like within the opening hours (9am-5pm).
Las Pailas Trail Starting Point
Entrance and parking at Las Pailas Sector
Las Pailas Trail + Oropendola Waterfall + Lunch + Hot Springs
Booking Options
Book your Rincon de la Vieja day trip as a self-drive tour or with transportation included.
🚗
Self-Drive Tour
Meet at Tour Starting Point
Best if you have your own car or prefer to travel independently
Free parking is available at Rincon de la Vieja National Park, at the restaurant and Rio Negro Hot Springs.
🚐
Transportation Included
Hotel Pickup Service throughout Guanacaste
⭐ Most convenient option – we take care of everything
Our driver will pick you up at your preferred location, take you to each activity and the restaurant, wait for you, and drive you back afterward.
⚠️ All tours have to be reserved in advance. If you arrive without a reservation, you may have to wait several hours for a guide or may not be able to join a tour that day.
Las Pailas Trail + Oropendola Waterfall + Lunch + Hot Springs
Itinerary
See what to expect at Las Pailas Trail, Oropendola Waterfall and Rio Negro Hot Springs in Rincon de la Vieja.
Las Pailas Trail
⏱ About
2 -3 Hrs
🚶 3.5 km
(~2.2 miles)
🥾 Easy – Moderate Loop Trail
Meet your guide and begin an exciting hike through tropical dry and humid forest, passing fascinating vegetation and volcanic features along the way.
During the hike, your guide will share interesting facts about the Rincon de la Vieja region, its unique flora and fauna, and the geothermal areas.
At different points along the Las Pailas Trail, you’ll observe steam vents, bubbling mud pots, and volcanic lagoons, all signs of the active Rincon de la Vieja Volcano.
With an experienced guide by your side, you’ll have a better chance of spotting wildlife along the trail, but keep in mind that sightings cannot be guaranteed as this is a natural environment.
Oropendola Waterfall
⏱ About
1 – 1.5 Hrs
🚶 900 m
(0.5 mi)
🥾 Easy
15 min Trail
After the Las Pailas Trail, Oropendola Waterfall is the perfect place to cool off and explore more volcanic landscapes.
It only takes about 15 minutes to reach the waterfall, but the trail is a highlight itself: After walking through the forest, you’ll cross a hanging bridge with stunning views of Oropendola Waterfall and the impressive volcanic rock formations.
Once you reach the waterfall, you can take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear pool and relax while enjoying the spectacular natural scenery around you.
On the way back, you’ll cross another hanging bridge over the turquoise river before returning to the parking lot.
Costa Rican Lunch
Time for a well-deserved lunch after Las Pailas Trail and Oropendola Waterfall.
Depending on the season, you can choose from an à la carte menu or a varied buffet with rice and beans, fish and meat, fresh vegetables, salads and dessert with coffee or tea.
Rio Negro Hot Springs and Mud Bath
⏱ About
1.5-2 Hrs
♨️ 10 Hot Spring Pools
🌋 Volcanic Mud Bath
After picking up your towels at the reception, cross the first hanging bridge and take a short walk through the forest to reach the hot springs.
Soon you’ll reach 10 natural hot spring pools with different temperatures (35°C–45°C / 95°F–113°F) on both sides of the Rio Negro River, connected by two hanging bridges with scenic views.
Choose the pools with the best temperature for you, enjoy the tropical surroundings, and cool off in the Rio Negro River between the thermal pools.
For the volcanic mud bath, apply the mud to your skin, let it dry, and then rinse it off in the river or under the showers.
Ready for your Rincon de la Vieja day trip?
⚠️ Tours fill up quickly, reserve your spot now!
Las Pailas Trail + Oropendola Waterfall + Lunch + Hot Springs
Reviews
Read what our guests say about their experiences with us at the Las Pailas Trail, Oropendola Waterfall and Rio Negro Hot Springs.
—
Amanda Gilchrist · Google Reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“We had a great day exploring Rincon de la Vieja, Orpendola waterfall and hot springs/mud bath with Justin and Vladimir! Our guides were very knowledgable and shared some very interesting facts about the volcano and surrounding flora and fauna, as well as some of the animals and insects we saw along the way.“
—
James Gallegro · Google Reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“We had an amazing trip with Andrey to Rincon de la Vieja!! Every part of the trip went off without a hitch. He was extremely warm, welcoming and not to mention informative and attentive to helping us have the best possible experience. We hiked the park and learned a lot, did the short waterfall walk and then the hot springs. Lunch at the end was delicious and our ride to and from was comfortable. Highly recommend this tour and remember to ask for Andrey, he’s great!!“
⚠️ Important Information
The Las Pailas Trail and short hike to Oropendola Waterfall are rated as easy to moderate and include uneven terrain and large steps. Both hikes are beginner-friendly and a great adventure for families with kids, but may not be suitable for everyone.
Who is this combo tour NOT suitable for?
❌ Not suitable for people with knee, ankle, walking or mobility limitations.
✔️ You don’t need advanced hiking experience, but a basic level of fitness is recommended.
⚠️ Use caution at the hot springs if you’re pregnant, have high blood pressure or heart conditions.
💡 Good to know
✔️ Since parts of the Las Pailas Trail lead through open terrain, be sure to use sunscreen or wear light long clothing, use a hat, and bring plenty of water.
✔️ We recommend entering the hot spring pools slowly, taking breaks, staying hydrated, and avoiding spending too much time in the hottest pools.
⚠️ Don’t put your head under the water in the thermal pools.
Practical Information
📍 How to Get to the Tour
You can get to your Rincon de la Vieja day tour by car or by choosing the option with transportation included.
Directions from Liberia
💡 You don’t need a 4×4 vehicle to get to the starting point at Rincon de la Vieja National Park, but drive carefully as parts of the road may have potholes.
1️⃣ From Liberia, drive about 5 km north on Highway 1.
2️⃣ Turn right when you see signs pointing to “Rincon de la Vieja National Park“.
3️⃣ Continue for about 20 minutes, passing through the village of Curubandé.
4️⃣ Enter the property of Hacienda Guachipelín through the security gate, turn left at the main building and follow the signs to the national park.
5️⃣ Continue straight for about 10 minutes and reach the parking lot for Rincon de la Vieja National Park at the end of the road.
After completing the hikes, your guide will give you exact directions from Rincon de la Vieja National Park to the restaurant and the hot springs.
Las Pailas Sector entrance and parking.
Tour with Transportation Included
If you don’t have a car available, or simply prefer the most convenient option, you can book your Rincon de la Vieja combo tour with transportation included.
🚐 Why Choose Transportation Included?
✔️ Hotel Pickup throughout Guanacaste
✔️ Flexible transfers: include the tour as a stop between two destinations
✔️ Get the best price by booking transportation together with your tour
✔️ Optional stops along the way for food or souvenirs
Enjoy convenient shuttle service throughout Guanacaste.
What to Bring & What’s Included
See what to bring to the Las Pailas Trail, Oropendola Waterfall and Rio Negro Hot Springs for a comfortable day trip.
🎒 What to Bring
✔️ Water bottle
✔️ Sunscreen & bug spray
✔️ Closed-toe shoes suitable for hiking
✔️ Comfortable sports clothes
✔️ Hat or cap
✔️ Swimsuit for Oropendola Waterfall & Rio Negro Hot Springs
✔️ A towel for Oropendola Waterfall
🪖 What’s Included
✔️ Experienced tour guide for Las Pailas Trail and Oropendola Waterfall
✔️ Costa Rican Lunch
✔️ Towels for Rio Negro Hot Springs
✔️ Entrance tickets to Rincon de la Vieja National Park, Oropendola Waterfall and Rio Negro Hot Springs
Facilities at Rincon de la Vieja National Park
At the Las Pailas Sector of Rincon de la Vieja National Park, you’ll find all the essential facilities you need before and after your hikes.
✔️ Free & safe parking
✔️ Restrooms
✔️ Water fountains
✔️ Small coffee shop below the parking area
Las Pailas Trail + Oropendola Waterfall + Lunch + Hot Springs
FAQ
How long does the Las Pailas Trail, Oropendola Waterfall and Rio Negro Hot Springs tour take?
The whole combo tour takes approximately 6+ hours including lunch, depending on your hiking pace and how long you want to stay at Oropendola Waterfall. The Las Pailas Trail typically takes about 2–3 hours, while the short walk and swimming at Oropendola Waterfall take about 1–1.5 hours. At Rio Negro Hot Springs most visitors spend about 1.5-2 hours.
Are Las Pailas Trail, Oropendola Waterfall and Rio Negro Hot Springs tickets included?
Yes, the entrance fees for the Las Pailas Trail, Oropendola Waterfall and Rio Negro Hot Springs are included in the tour price, as well as an experienced guide.
Is a guide included for the Las Pailas Trail and Oropendola Waterfall?
Yes, an experienced guide is included for the Las Pailas Trail and Oropendola Waterfall. After the hikes, your guide will show you the way to the restaurant and then take you to Rio Negro Hot Springs. Your guide will show you around, and afterwards you can stay at the hot springs as long as you like within the opening hours (9am-5pm).
How difficult is the Las Pailas Trail?
The Las Pailas Loop Trail takes about 2–3 hours, is rated as easy to moderate, and includes uneven terrain and some large steps. You don’t need advanced hiking experience, but a basic level of fitness is required. This hike is not suitable for visitors with knee, ankle, walking or mobility issues.
Is this Rincon de la Vieja tour suitable for kids?
Yes, the Las Pailas Trail, Oropendola Waterfall and Rio Negro Hot Springs are great activities for active families with kids. There is no age limit for the tour, but keep in mind that the Las Pailas Trail includes 2–3 hours of walking and some large steps, which can be challenging for young kids. If you’re traveling with small children, we recommend bringing a backpack carrier, as the trails are not suitable for strollers.
Is lunch included in this Rincon de la Vieja combo tour?
Yes, a traditional Costa Rican lunch is included in the tour price. After the Las Pailas Trail and Oropendola Waterfall, your guide will show you the way to the restaurant. Depending on the season, you can choose from an à la carte menu or a varied buffet, with dessert and coffee included.
Is transportation included for this Rincon de la Vieja combo package?
Transportation from your accommodation to the tour is not included in the tour price. You can add it during booking for an additional cost by choosing the option ➡️ with transportation.
How long can I stay at Rio Negro Hot Springs?
Once your guide has shown you around Rio Negro Hot Springs, you can stay and enjoy the Rincon de la Vieja hot springs as long as you like within the opening hours from 9am to 5pm.